Joshua Larsen Bio
Joshua Larsen (born 4 April 1994) is a Canadian rugby union player who plays for the New England Free Jacks in Major League Rugby (MLR). He is known for his position as a lock and has also represented Canada internationally. In 2025, he transitioned from a player role to an assistant coach with the Free Jacks.
Early Life and Background
Joshua Larsen was born in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. He grew up in a family with a strong connection to sports, as his father is from New Zealand and his brother, Travis Larsen, also plays rugby. This background provided Joshua with early exposure to the sport, fostering his passion for rugby from a young age.
For his education, Joshua attended Otago University in New Zealand, where he pursued a bachelor’s degree in commerce. While studying, he played at the amateur level for Taieri RFC, which helped him develop his skills and gain valuable experience in competitive rugby.
Path to Rugby
After completing his education, Joshua Larsen joined the Northland academy and began his professional career with Northland from 2016 to 2018. During this time, he honed his abilities and established himself as a promising player in the rugby community. He also played for Otago in the Mitre 10 Cup, further enhancing his profile in the sport.
In 2019, Larsen made his debut in Major League Rugby with the Austin Elite, where he made 13 appearances and scored two tries. His performance caught the attention of the New England Free Jacks, leading to his signing with the team in 2020.
Joshua Larsen Career
Early Career (2016-2019)
Joshua Larsen’s early career began with his time at Northland, where he played from 2016 to 2018. His notable achievements during this period included contributing to the team’s success and gaining recognition for his skills as a lock. After his stint with Northland, he played for Otago in the Mitre 10 Cup, which helped him transition to professional rugby in North America.
In 2019, Larsen joined the Austin Elite in Major League Rugby, where he made a significant impact in his first season. His performance included 13 matches and two tries, showcasing his potential as a valuable player in the league.
Breakthrough (2020-Present)
Joshua Larsen’s breakthrough came when he signed with the New England Free Jacks in 2020. He quickly became a cornerstone of the team, serving as captain since his first year. During the shortened 2020 season, he appeared in five matches and scored two tries. His leadership and skills on the field were instrumental in establishing the Free Jacks as a competitive team in Major League Rugby.
In the following seasons, Larsen continued to excel, although he faced challenges due to injuries. He made a strong comeback in 2024, helping lead the Free Jacks to back-to-back MLR championships in 2024 and 2025. Notably, he achieved his 50th cap with the club on July 27, 2024, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Joshua Larsen’s career is highlighted by his leadership with the New England Free Jacks and his contributions to the team’s success in the MLR. His achievements include winning MLR Championships in 2024 and 2025, solidifying his status as a key player in the league.
Joshua Larsen Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joshua Larsen has received recognition for his contributions to rugby, particularly during his time with the New England Free Jacks. His leadership and performance have made him a respected figure in the sport.
Joshua Larsen Awards Won
Joshua Larsen has celebrated significant achievements in his rugby career, including winning MLR Championships in 2024 and 2025 with the New England Free Jacks.
Joshua Larsen Family
Joshua Larsen was born into a family with a rich sports background. His father is from New Zealand, and he has a brother, Travis Larsen, who also plays rugby. This familial connection has played a role in shaping his passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Since moving to the United States, Joshua Larsen has developed an interest in American sports, particularly football. He has also described himself as a coffee connoisseur, showcasing his diverse interests outside of rugby. Additionally, he had the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a Boston Red Sox game on August 31, 2025, further connecting him to the local sports culture.